Abstract:
A lumbar traction device is herein disclosed. The lumbar traction device includes a lumbar support member to be worn adjacent to a lumbar region of a user, at least one lower leg support to be worn adjacent to a lower leg of the user, and at least one connecting member connecting the lumbar support member and the at least one lower leg support, the at least one connecting member being substantially inelastic. When a load is applied to the at least one lower leg support, the load is transferred to the lumbar support member via the at least one connecting member. When the load is transferred to the lumbar support member, the lumbar support member forcibly presses against the lower lumbar area of user, thereby distracting the hip bone from the lower vertebrae.
Abstract:
A compact and easy-to-use isometric and isokinetic exercise apparatus that is particularly applicable to exercising the neck to improve strength and flexibility and to help alleviate neck pain. Different embodiments provide different arrangements that allow the user to control the level of exercise resistance to meet the tolerance or desires of the user. In all embodiments, the apparatus allows for controlled and graded resistance to the neck that allows the user to regulate the amount of resistance in an incremental manner. One embodiment of a neck exercising apparatus according to the present invention comprises an attachment mechanism for attaching to a user's head. Actuating mechanisms can also be included that allow the user to provide a movement force to the apparatus, wherein the movement force is transferred to said attachment mechanism. The apparatus is arranged such that movement from the actuating mechanisms in one direction causes movement of the attachment mechanism in a different direction.
Abstract:
A system for assisting in the performance of passive stretches includes a stretching device and a control mechanism. The stretching device includes an inflatable component. The control mechanism enables a user to control the degree of inflation of the inflatable component. The stretching device may optionally include one or more user contact surfaces attached to an outer layer or formed within an outer layer. The system may also include a support for supporting the stretching device at a particular height. The support may compressively hold the stretching device at the particular height when the inflatable component is inflated.
Abstract:
An apparatus for stretching at least the hamstring muscle of a user's leg is provided having a first support member for supporting the back of the leg of the user at or near the knee at least at the commencement of stretching and a second support member for engaging the back of the lower leg portion of the user during stretching. This first support member is disposed in front of the user during stretching of the hamstring muscle of the user's leg and the second support member is displaceable generally in a direction to stretch the hamstring muscle of the user's leg. An actuator operable by the user during use of the apparatus can be used for displacing at least the second support member generally in a direction to cause stretching of at least the hamstring muscle of the user's leg.
Abstract:
A rehabilitation device that has a foot support with a width that substantially covers the arch of a patient's foot. The foot support has a closure system that allows the support to snugly receive and support the foot. The device has at least one strap detachably attached to the foot support, the strap comprising a fastener to allow a loop to be formed in the length of the strap. The device is operated by pulling the foot toward the knee to increase range of motion after knee injury.
Abstract:
A therapy device includes a hand engaging element configured to engage with a hand, and configured to at least partially distribute a force. At least one pulling cord having a first end is configured to be connected to the hand engaging element, and having a second end which is configured to be pulled. A force redirecting element is configured to be connected to a back of the hand or a back of a wrist, and is configured to redirect a pulling force exerted on the second end. The pulling force directed to be able to extend the hand.
Abstract:
A therapy device includes a device body having one or more holes to engage the fingers of a first hand. A pulling member coupled with the device body is adapted to be grasped by a second hand and adapted to extend or flex, the first hand.
Abstract:
An exercise apparatus 10 comprising a plurality of ergonomically contoured body pads (47, 48, 49, 50, 56, 58, 60, 64, 65), a pair of substantially identical frame arms (80) which are each removably coupled to a double cardan joint (100). Particularly, each respective double cardan joint (100) is coupled to a center beam (28) which rotates to a respective side upon a user actuating a respective one of the pair of frame arms (80), thereby affording a user a substantially safe exercise that is conducted in both a compression and a tensile mode of motion.
Abstract:
Walking motion apparatus and methods for use thereof are provided for enabling paraplegic, quadriplegic, brain injured and various other handicapped patients to implement a natural walking motion while either supporting no weight, or alternately, a selected portion of their weight.
Abstract:
A device for exercising a patient's leg, including rehabilitating a patient's knee joint following knee surgery is disclosed. The device comprises an elongated member with a handle at one end, a harness for holding the patient's foot attached to the other end, and an adjustable slider assembly that can be positioned at a variety of locations along the elongated member. A fulcrum, which is attached to the slider assembly rests on the top of the patient's leg, either above or below the knee, while the harness holds the patient's foot. The device is operated by the patient pulling on the handle, thereby straightening the leg, which increases the range of motion of the knee joint following knee surgery. The device is adjustable to accommodate patients of varying heights and leg lengths and also to provide greater leverage in operating the device.